Research and Evaluation (Social Work): Theoretical Approaches (P02762)

? Credit Points : 20 ? SCQF Level : 11 ? Acronym : SPS-P-RETA

It is essential that practitioners have a good understanding of research and evaluation principles and practice. This is, in part, about creating research-mindedness; about drawing on findings from ‘best practice’ and also about knowing how to evaluate their own practice. Students on this course will spend some time undertaking general learning but also work in study groups related to their own practice setting.

Entry Requirements

none

Subject Areas

Home subject area

Postgraduate (School of Social and Political Science), (School of Social and Political Science, Schedule J)

Delivery Information

? Normal year taken : Postgraduate

? Delivery Period : To be arranged/Unknown

? Additional Class Information : Please note that as the course is a distance learning pat-time MSc, teaching is arranged in blocks of seven hour days. There are also study days.

Summary of Intended Learning Outcomes

The course aims to enhance students’ knowledge and understanding of social work research by promoting informed and critical appraisal of the techniques and ethics involved in research, evaluation and social enquiry.

On completion of the course students should be able to:
• Describe and evaluate relevant social science and evaluation methodologies;
• Interpret data and comment on conclusions reached;
• Demonstrate familiarity with ideas and concepts from research literature;
• Evaluate different research strategies and data collection methods with reference to issues such as reliability, validity, feasibility and ethics;
• Demonstrate understanding of the place theoretical perspectives and evidence from international research has in assessment and decision-making processes in social work practice;
• Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of issues in relation to sensitive topics and sensitive populations;
• Contribute to policy and practice review and development:
• Locate, understand and critically evaluate research findings and literature that is relevant to social work practice and;
• Demonstrate familiarity with the range and significance of approaches for evaluating welfare outcomes.

Assessment Information

Students will be required to choose a research study related to their own practice setting, and, in no more than 4,000 words, write a critical review of the research.